How the FCA can support you as a UK or international firm

We enable fair and thriving financial services in the UK. Most firms or individuals providing these services must be authorised or registered with us. Find out how we're ready to support you as a UK or international firm.
Skyline image

Introducing our services for firms

We support firms that aim to operate in the UK, authorised firms that want to launch new services and scale up, and investors seeking to invest in UK financial services. Nikhil Rathi explains how we can support your firm.

Transcript

Our support services

We know each firm’s journey is unique, from start-up and launch, to product and service evolution and expansion. We offer a range of services to firms wanting to operate in the UK. These can be used in any way and can be accessed at any time. Find the right service for you.
Individuals looking at tablet

I’ve got a new idea and need help

We're here to help your firm understand whether FCA authorisation is required at any stage of your journey, prepare applications, or support developing their idea.

Find out more
Individual looking at computer screen

I need help applying for an FCA license

Get help with the stages of becoming authorised, registered or setting up a UK fund, and our expectations of applicants.

Find out more
Individuals having conversation

I am authorised and need help growing my business

Once your firm is authorised, we can help you improve its ability to grow and scale.

Find out more
Individual pointing at screen

I want to invest in a UK company or FCA-regulated firm

We approve the change in control and acquisition of firms and support securities onto the Official List.

Find out more

How to use our services

See how some of our services can support your firm to launch products and start to do business.

Regulatory Sandbox

I want to test my innovative proposition in the market with real consumers.

Video: how to use this service

Innovation Pathways

I want help to understand how FCA regulation relates to my innovative proposition.

Video: how to use this service

Digital Sandbox

I want access to a range of synthetic data sets to test and develop my technology solutions.

Video: how to use this service

Firms' experience of our services

See how we are supporting firms.
1,000+ firms supported through our innovation services since their launch in 2015.

1,000+ firms supported through our innovation services since their launch in 2015.

Since its launch in 2023, over 190 firms have applied to use our pre-application service.

Since its launch in 2023, over 190 firms have applied to use our pre-application service.

In Q4 24/25, 50% of new firm authorisation applications determined in just over 4 months, and 75% within 7 months.

In Q4 24/25, 50% of new firm authorisation applications determined in just over 4 months, and 75% within 7 months.

Early and High Growth Oversight supervises up to 300 firms, growing to 450 firms by end-2025.

Early and High Growth Oversight supervises up to 300 firms, growing to 450 firms by end-2025.

More about investing in the UK

As part of the growth mission, we are working with Government to make it easier for firms and individuals to do business in the UK. Visit Business.gov.uk

Dual-regulated firms' support services

Joint services from FCA and PRA if you're setting up as a new bank or insurer in the UK.

Find out more

More for international firms

Additional support if you're an international firm looking to set up in the UK.

Find out more

Can’t find what you're looking for?

Contact us or request translated information.

Find out more